Things to Do in Bremen Germany

The federal state of Bremen, nestled within the larger state of Lower Saxony, is often overlooked due to its size, but it’s a hidden gem that holds a wealth of history and culture. Comprising two distinct enclaves – the City of Bremen and the City of Bremerhaven – this region offers a rich tapestry of experiences.

1. 1. Folklore and Fortune: – “The Town Musicians of Bremen,” a cherished Brothers Grimm folktale, inspires good luck through the iconic donkey statue on the market square.
   2. Guardian of Independence: – Roland, a statue dating back to 1404, symbolizes Bremen’s independence and is a UNESCO World Heritage Site.
   3. Daring Merchants: – The Schütting guild house, a 600-year-old hub, echoes the daring spirit of Bremen’s merchants with the motto “buten un binnen wagen un winnen” (outside and in, risk it and win).
   4. Maritime Legacy: – The Weser River and Hanseatic cogs played a crucial role in Bremen’s maritime trade history.
   5. Trade Symbolism: – Bremen’s Weser Renaissance-style city hall boasts sandstone figures, including the Bremen Key, signifying the city’s importance in international trade.
   6. Historic Equality: – The “Schaffermahlzeit” banquet marked a significant step towards gender equality by inviting women as equals to the table in 2015.
   7. Safety at Sea: – The German Maritime Search and Rescue Service (DGzRS) ensures safety at sea with 60 lifeboats operating 24/7.
   8. Bustling Seaport: – Bremerhaven is Europe’s largest container port, with impressive cargo handling and distinctive landmarks.
   9. Emigration Stories: – The German Emigration Center in Bremerhaven holds the tales of millions who embarked on journeys to the new world during the 19th and 20th centuries.
   10. Climate Exploration: – The Klimahaus in Bremerhaven, resembling a ship, takes visitors on a climate change journey through various ecosystems.

Top 15 Attractions in Bremen Germany

Bremen, officially known as the “Free Hanseatic City of Bremen,” is a vibrant port city situated on Germany’s lower Weser River. Just an hour’s drive west of Hamburg, Bremen offers a rich cultural heritage, historic sites, and a wealth of attractions for tourists. If you’re planning a visit to this northern German gem, read on to discover the top 15 attractions and things to do in Bremen.

  1. Marktplatz

Start your journey in the heart of the city by visiting the historic Marktplatz (marketplace). Here, you can admire the iconic Bremer Rathaus (Town Hall) with its unique mix of Gothic and Renaissance architecture. Don’t forget to snap a picture with the statue of Roland, symbolizing the city’s freedom.

 2. Christmas Market

If you’re visiting during winter, enjoy the festive atmosphere of Bremen’s Christmas Market on Marktplatz. The dazzling lights and holiday spirit make it a perfect place for a winter getaway. Don’t miss the colorful Freimarkt parade and Experience an Authentic German Christmas Market, a Bremen tradition for almost a millennium.

 3. Bremen Town Hall

Explore the stunning Bremen Town Hall, a UNESCO World Heritage Site, and marvel at its Renaissance facade. Join one of the guided tours to discover the elegant banqueting hall and unique features like the Bremen Town Musicians.

 4. Bremen’s Medieval Schnoor Quarter

Visit the charming Schnoor Quarter, known for its 15th- to 18th-century buildings. This district was once the poorest part of Bremen but is now a haven for artists and creative souls. Explore museums like Schifferhaus and Landherrnamt.

 5. Cathedral of St. Peter

Admire the Cathedral of St. Peter (St. Petri Dom), an 11th-century masterpiece. Explore the Cathedral Museum, featuring well-preserved mummies and historical artifacts. Don’t miss the chance to climb the tower for panoramic views.

 6. Böttcherstrasse

Discover the unique architecture of Böttcherstrasse, a street of museums with expressionist designs. Visit Paula Becker-Modersohn Museum and Roselius-Haus, both showcasing remarkable art collections. So go and Take a Stroll along the Böttcherstrasse.

 7. Schlachte

Experience the Schlachte, a picturesque boardwalk along the River Weser. Explore historic vessels, dine at riverside cafes, and enjoy the atmosphere of this Old Town pedestrian zone.

 8. Kunsthalle Bremen

Immerse yourself in art at Kunsthalle Bremen, which houses Dutch paintings, German masters, and modern art. Explore the Weserburg Museum of Modern Art for contemporary works.

 9. Blossoms at Rhododendron-Park and Mühle am Wall

Visit Rhododendron-Park, home to a vast collection of rhododendrons and azaleas. Explore the Bremen Botanical Garden and dine at the Mühle am Wall windmill restaurant.

 10. Universum Bremen

Experience science at Universum Bremen, a unique science center with interactive exhibits. Don’t miss EntdeckerPark and its “dining in the dark” experience.

 11. Overseas Museum

Discover natural history and ethnography at the Overseas Museum (Übersee-Museum Bremen). Explore exhibitions related to Bremen’s trade history and enjoy guided tours in English.

 12. Focke Museum

Delve into Bremen’s history at the Focke Museum, with exhibits covering 1,200 years of the city’s past. Enjoy interactive experiments for kids in the attic of Haus Riensberg.

 13. Maritime Museum in Bremerhaven

Head north to Bremerhaven and explore the German Maritime Museum, showcasing the country’s seafaring history. Explore old ships and enjoy the harbor area.

 14. Valentin Submarine Pens

Visit the Valentin Submarine Pens, a historic WW2 attraction located between Bremen and Bremerhaven. Explore this massive concrete structure and learn about its history.

 15. Zarm Drop Tower

For science enthusiasts, visit the Zarm Drop Tower at Bremen University. Take guided tours to learn about experiments and enjoy breathtaking views of Bremen.

Local Dishes to eat in state of Bremen Germany

When visiting Bremen, Germany, it’s not just the scenic landscapes and historic architecture that will captivate you; it’s also the delightful local cuisine. Bremen is a city that takes pride in its culinary heritage, and if you’re a food enthusiast, you’re in for a treat. Here are five must-try local foods and drinks in Bremen, each with its unique flavor and history.

 1. Knipp

Knipp, a German sausage believed to have originated in Bremen, may not win any beauty contests, but its taste is something you must experience. Made from a blend of pork or beef, oats, onions, allspice, salt, pepper, and various herbs, Knipp is a delightful breakfast treat.

To enjoy Knipp at its best, fry it in butter and serve it on a slice of toasted white or wholemeal bread. The result is a savory, satisfying, and uniquely Bremen breakfast experience that locals hold dear to their hearts.

 2. Bremer Klaben

For those with a sweet tooth, Bremer Klaben is a delectable treat. This rich cake, steeped in tradition, is made with a heavy yeast dough filled with candied fruit and nuts. The history of Klaben dates back to the 16th century, when Bremen’s bakers gained access to fascinating ingredients through their trade connections.

The cake’s filling includes a delightful mix of raisins, almonds, various nuts, and zesty orange and lemon peel. Notably, unlike Dresdner Stollen, it isn’t dusted with sugar after baking. The unique taste of Bremer Klaben is enhanced by the addition of cardamom, rum, or nutmeg. A slice of this holiday favorite will transport your taste buds to a different era, steeped in tradition and flavor.

 3. Sailors’ Beef (Matrosenfleisch)

Matrosenfleisch, a delectable meat dish, has its roots in Bremen’s culinary heritage. This savory dish features beef tenderloin, bacon, flour, butter, onions, parsley, beef stock, sour cream, lemon peel, capers, marjoram, salt, and pepper.

To prepare Matrosenfleisch, first season beef steaks with salt and pepper, then wrap them in bacon. After lightly coating them in flour, brown the steaks in butter on both sides. Next, set the meat aside, and sauté the onions and parsley in the same pan. Meat enthusiasts visiting Bremen must try the dish, which elevates its flavors and ingredients with a delightful combination.

 4. Bremer Bier

Beer lovers, rejoice! Bremen has a long and storied history of brewing beer dating back to the 13th century. The city’s breweries adhere to the strict standards of the 1516 German Purity Law, ensuring that only the finest malt, hops, yeast, and water are used in the beer-making process.

Under the protection of the Bremer Bier PGI label, these breweries produce a variety of beer styles, including Pils, Hell, Export, Dunkel, Bock, Doppelbock, Weiße, and Light/Schankbier. What’s remarkable is that Bremen’s beer has been cherished across northern Europe for centuries, and even today, Bremen breweries are among Germany’s top beer exporters. So, when in Bremen, make sure to savor the local brews that are a testament to tradition and quality.

 5. Bremer Braunkohl

Bremer braunkohl is a hearty and traditional German dish that hails from Bremen. It’s the perfect comfort food, especially during the chilly winter months. The dish combines kale, onions, oatmeal or buckwheat groats, and a touch of salt and sugar. What truly gives it that distinctive flavor is the choice of fat used for sautéing – chicken fat, goose fat, or lard.

To prepare Bremer braunkohl, finely chop the kale and sauté it with onions in the selected fat. Next, add oatmeal or buckwheat groats to the pot, along with some water and salt. Allow the mixture to simmer until the kale becomes tender, and the cereal cooks perfectly. Typically, Bremer braunkohl is served as a side dish to sausages, making it a delightful and filling meal for locals and visitors alike.

Conclusion

Bremen and Bremerhaven in the state of Bremen Germany emerge as enchanting destinations, weaving together history, culture, and culinary delights. From the comforting Bremer braunkohl to the rich flavors of Bremer Klaben, the local cuisine tantalizes taste buds, while the cities’ historic landmarks and maritime heritage offer a tapestry of experiences. Bremen’s diverse attractions, encompassing museums, scenic locales, and scientific wonders, promise an unforgettable journey. Embark on a voyage to these Hanseatic gems, and uncover the magic of northern Germany, leaving you with cherished memories and a longing to return.

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